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Lefkara: A Tapestry of Lace, Silver, and Tradition

Discover Lefkara, Cyprus: Where timeless traditions of lace-making and silversmithing meet stunning mountain scenery and cultural charm.

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Nestled in the Troodos Mountains, Lefkara is a picturesque Cypriot village renowned for its exquisite lace (Lefkaritika) and intricate silverwork. This charming destination offers a glimpse into traditional Cypriot life, with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and artisan workshops.

A brief summary to Lefkara

Local tips

  • Visit during the off-season (spring or autumn) to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather for exploring the village.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets and exploring the surrounding hills.
  • Purchase authentic Lefkara lace or silver jewelry directly from local artisans to support their craft and take home a unique souvenir.
  • Sample traditional Cypriot cuisine at a local taverna, and be sure to try the Lefkara ttavas, a regional specialty.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the A1 highway (Nicosia-Limassol), exit towards Lefkara. Follow the signs; the village is approximately 10 kilometers from the highway. Parking is available on the outskirts of the village to avoid narrow streets. Parking costs range from €0.50 to €3 for half a day.

  • Public Transport

    From Larnaca, take bus #448, #408, or #414 to Kofinou (€1.50 - €1.70). From Kofinou, transfer to bus #449 or #405 to Lefkara. Check the bus schedule in advance, as these buses run infrequently. From Limassol, take the intercity bus to Larnaca/Famagusta (€4), but note that this bus does not stop at the bus stop in Kofinou to change to No. 405 or No.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from major cities like Larnaca and Limassol. A taxi from Larnaca to Lefkara will cost approximately €35. Agree on the fare before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Lefkara

Lefkara, often called 'Lefkara the Beautiful' by Cypriots, is a captivating village that embodies Cyprus's rich cultural heritage. Divided into Pano Lefkara (Upper Lefkara) and Kato Lefkara (Lower Lefkara), this mountain village in the Larnaca region is world-renowned for its exquisite lace embroidery, known as 'Lefkaritika', and its intricate silver handicrafts. The name Lefkara is derived from the Greek words 'lefka' (white) and 'ori' (mountains), a testament to the village's stunning landscape characterized by white silica and limestone. Lefkara's history is as rich as its crafts. During the Frankish and Venetian periods, Pano Lefkara became a fiefdom and, in the 16th century, the largest town in Cyprus. Historical sources suggest that various conquerors of Cyprus have left their mark on Lefkara. Under Venetian rule (1489 - 1570), it is believed that Lefkara became a tourist resort for Venetian noblewomen who, according to a historical version, taught the craft of embroidery (Lefkaritiko lace) to the women of the village. Legend has it that Leonardo da Vinci visited Lefkara in 1481 and purchased a lace cloth for the main altar of Milan's Duomo. The village's lace products, known as lefkaritika, are highly sought after and have graced wardrobes of royalty and dignitaries worldwide. In 2009, Lefkara lace was added to the UNESCO list of intangible heritage items. In addition to lace-making, Pano Lefkara is known for its silversmithing. Visitors can explore numerous workshops along the cobbled streets, where artisans create intricate silver jewelry. The Museum of Traditional Embroidery and Silversmithing, housed in the restored Patsalos residence, offers insights into the village's cultural heritage, showcasing traditional furniture, costumes, and examples of Lefkara lacework. A notable architectural landmark is the Church of the Holy Cross (Timios Stavros), dating back to the 13th century. The church features frescoes from 1760 and houses a relic believed to contain a fragment of the True Cross.

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